The Bawku peace mediation at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi has been postponed to next week, following an initial engagement between the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and representatives of the factions involved in the protracted conflict.
Day one of the mediation process on Tuesday saw the Asantehene meeting separately with leaders of the Mamprusi and Kusasi groups in a closed-door session aimed at setting the tone for a peaceful dialogue.
JoyNews sources say the meetings were cordial and productive.
Sources confirmed the postponement, citing the need for further consultations and preparation to ensure a more structured and inclusive dialogue in the next session.
This renewed push for peace comes after President John Mahama reaffirmed his government’s commitment to backing the Asantehene’s leadership in efforts to restore calm and unity in the troubled region.
In a statement issued on April 15, Otumfuo officially announced that the crucial mediation sessions would be held from April 28 to May 1 at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
These meetings are seen as a pivotal moment in the national quest to resolve the Bawku disturbances.
Meanwhile, respected Security Analyst Colonel Festus Aboagye (Retired) has called for broader support for the Asantehene’s initiative, emphasising the urgent need to embrace multi-track diplomacy to strengthen the peace process.
In a thought-provoking opinion piece released today, Colonel Aboagye urged national stakeholders to enrich the mediation by incorporating diaspora leaders, youth influencers, and women’s peacebuilding networks, arguing that a multi-faceted approach could deliver a more sustainable and inclusive resolution to the protracted conflict.
“Support Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s mediation through multi-track diplomacy, incorporating diaspora leaders, youth influencers, and women’s peacebuilding networks,” he proposed.
He warned that traditional diplomacy alone might not fully heal the deep-seated divisions.
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